The original Fiat 124 had all the charm of its rivals from an era that included Alfa Romeo, Lotus, MG and Triumph. They all delivered the classic roadster charm of open-top motoring in a small two-seater. Like its contemporaries, the 124 was also plagued with mechanical gremlins, and when it came to comfort and convenience, it was only a step up from bicycling.

Fast forward to the present day and the recently revived Fiat 124 Spider keeps its charm and minimizes its drawbacks. Much of this has to do with its Japanese DNA. Under the nouveau-retro bodywork are the same underpinnings as the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Fiat does use its own engine and transmission, however, along with unique suspension tuning. For most drivers, the differences in driving dynamics are negligible. That leaves the decision to personal preferences and aesthetics.

Within the Fiat 124 lineup, you have three flavors to choose from: the basic Classica trim, the Lusso with more creature comforts, and the athletic Abarth. They're all fun to drive and engaging, but they're also all limited on passenger and cargo space, have a rough ride, and larger drivers will likely find the seats and cabin in general confining. We're also not fans of the automatic transmission. The manual is not only the best pick for the 124, but it's also one of the best in any class.

If the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for you, either the Miata or the Fiat 124 Spider will keep you happy. Otherwise, we suggest checking out other convertibles such as the Chevy Camaro, the Ford Mustang and the Mini Cooper S.

Trim levels & features

The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider is available in three trim levels: the relatively bare-bones Classica, the more comprehensively equipped Lusso and the aggressive Abarth. All three trims are powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 160 horsepower in Classica and Lusso trims and 164 hp in the Abarth, and 184 pound-feet of torque in all three. Power goes to the rear wheels through either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic.

The Fiat's base Classica trim comes standard with 16-inch wheels, air conditioning, keyless entry, push-button start, a rearview camera, a height-adjustable driver's seat, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, and a four-speaker sound system with a 3-inch display screen. The Technology Group adds proximity entry and satellite radio. The Urbana Edition adds to the Classica special 17-inch black wheels, foglights, leather and microfiber upholstery, piano black exterior accents, matte gray interior accents, upgraded interior surfaces, and satellite radio.

Moving up to the Lusso trim gets you 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, foglights, automatic windshield wipers, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated seats, the same upgraded interior surfaces found in the Urbana Edition, the Technology Group features, and the Mazda-sourced 7-inch infotainment system.

The Fiat 124 Spider Abarth adds to the Lusso's content a performance-tuned suspension and a limited-slip differential, along with a driving mode selector with Sport and Normal modes, leather and microfiber upholstery, a sport steering wheel, and a handful of unique interior and exterior styling cues. Notable Abarth-specific options include Brembo performance brakes and Recaro sport seats featuring a leather and simulated suede upholstery.

Fiat offers several packages for the Lusso and Abarth. The Convenience Group adds blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, rear parking sensors, auto-dimming mirrors, and a security alarm. The Navigation & Sound Group adds integrated navigation to the 7-inch infotainment system and a 9-speaker Bose sound system. The Visibility Group adds adaptive LED headlights with washers and LED running lamps.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Fiat 124 Spider Lusso (turbo 1.4L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | RWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2017, the current 124 Spider has received some revisions to the distribution of options in its packages. Our findings remain applicable to this year's 124 Spider.

Driving

Steering, handling and braking performance are definite strengths for this lightweight roadster. Unfortunately, the peaky turbo engine and upshift-happy, efficiency-minded automatic transmission are a poor match, frequently leaving you without sufficient power.

Acceleration

The tiny turbo-four is weak down low, only feeling eager and punchy at higher revs. Out in the real world, with the transmission's fervor for upshifting, you're often left lugging until the drivetrain catches up. Still, our measured 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds isn't bad for such a small engine.

Braking

One of the 124's strong points: The pedal is firm and communicative, and the car tracks straight during panic stops. The brakes inspire confidence and work just as well in stop-and-go traffic as on back roads. Our tested panic-stop distance from 60 mph of 111 feet is average for a sports car.

Steering

4.5

The steering is quick and very precise and offers useful road feel. Weighting is lighter than the steering in many sports cars, but it's well-suited to such a small and maneuverable car. The steering, however, can be darty at highway speeds.

Handling

The 124 changes direction well and exhibits minimal body roll around turns. But midcorner bumps can unsettle the chassis.

Drivability

2.5

The 124 is slow off the line, but the car starts smoothly and consistently. The automatic transmission is overly eager to upshift, and it frequently leaves you without power. This leads to lots of hunting around for the right gear during spirited driving and while maneuvering through traffic.

Comfort

The 124 doesn't have a lot to offer in terms of comfort. The ride is better than in many performance-oriented cars, but the seats are tight, and there's a significant lack of sound insulation. Plenty of other convertibles have more to offer when it comes to everyday comfort.

Seat comfort

2.5

These seats are quite narrow. For larger drivers, the bolsters are prominent enough to be uncomfortable, but they're not big enough to effectively hold you in place. There's no lumbar support to speak of, and the headrests with integrated speakers are uncomfortably hard.

Ride comfort

The ride will be too stiff for some; bumps and dips are translated throughout the car. But it isn't harsh, and smaller imperfections are absorbed well. Undulating road surfaces or regular freeway seams cause an uncomfortable hobby-horse effect due in part to the car's short wheelbase.

Noise & vibration

2.5

Wind noise with the top down is well-controlled below 50 mph. With the top up, there are lots of mechanical noises. And at highway speeds, it depends on road conditions whether wind and tire noise will be intrusive or merely noticeable. The 124 Lusso's restrained exhaust avoids engine drone.

Climate control

The knob controls are straightforward, and make switching between automatic and manual modes easy, though temperature selection isn't really graduated. The system can combat even high heat but works hard to do it. Having only three vents can add frustration to driving with a passenger on hot days.

Interior

Some buyers will value the 124's diminutive stature, but there's no getting around the fact that such a small car forces compromises in terms of seat adjustability and entering and exiting. Being a convertible, it also has some visibility issues, but the manual top is exceptionally easy to use.

Ease of use

3.5

This car's small size brings all of the controls within easy reach. Drivers with long arms will find the infotainment control knob's placement awkward, especially when the removable cupholders are in place. Its few controls are clearly marked and easy to understand.

Getting in/getting out

The door is long enough, but the tall, wide sill and low roof with the top up create some problems. Taller drivers and passengers will just about fold themselves in half to get in or out. The experience is about average for such a low-slung convertible sports car.

Driving position

The seatback must be upright for the seat to slide fully aft, so tall drivers must choose between legroom or reclining. Beyond that frustration, the driving position is appropriate, with the seat set low in the car. More adjustments might be nice, but there's no room for them in the cramped space.

Roominess

The 124 is tiny, and it feels tiny inside. There's not much lateral leg space or elbow and shoulder room. The low and thick windscreen frame adds to the claustrophobic feeling, even with the top down. The transmission tunnel takes up passenger-side floor space, making for a cramped experience.

Visibility

Forward visibility is good, and the rearview mirror visibility is better than average for this type of car thanks to the low, sloping rear deck. Rear three-quarter visibility is laughably bad with the top up, and the side mirrors are quite small, so blind-spot monitoring is a helpful extra.

Quality

There's a mishmash of Mazda and Fiat parts in the cabin, so it doesn't feel all that cohesive. The sense of quality is a bit hit-or-miss: Soft-touch surfaces mix with flimsy-feeling plastics, and some pieces (notably in our tester, the rear folding-top release handle) felt looser than we'd like.

Convertible top

The manual top is easy and straightforward to operate. It can be opened and closed very quickly, and it requires only mild contortions to reach. Taller drivers should exercise some caution. If they lean too far outboard, they'll find their skulls in the path of the upper side-window frame.

Utility

You can't expect much utility from a tiny two-seat convertible, and the 124 certainly doesn't deliver much. A weekend trip for two is about the most this car can handle. Other convertibles might offer more practicality, but that typically comes at the cost of size, weight and nimbleness.

Small-item storage

The tiny armrest box is just enough for a wallet and keys, and there's a cubby for a phone in the center console. The "glovebox" behind and between the seats, while big enough for a purse, is difficult to access, and it's blocked if you're keeping something in the removable cupholders.

Cargo space

The trunk is minuscule, with a small opening that's flat in the rear deck. Fortunately, the car is low to the ground, which keeps the liftover height from being overly problematic. Two soft overnight bags will fit, but don't plan on packing much more than that.

Technology

The 124's infotainment system — sourced from Mazda — is an easy-to-use unit with a good knob-based interface. It offers the features you expect, with the biggest omission being Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Driver aids are optional, and there are only a few.

Audio & navigation

Navigation is easy to use, although it's not the easiest system to navigate points of interest with. Audio quality is middling, and the system has to be turned up quite a bit to compete with all the background noise. The tinny in-headrest speakers feel more like a gimmick than a necessary addition.

Smartphone integration

Bluetooth is easy to connect and works well, including displaying incoming messages — although it will only recognize one message and one email app, at least with an Android phone. There's no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but two USB ports mean passenger and driver can each charge a device.

Driver aids

Optional blind-spot monitoring is a welcome addition with the small side mirrors, as is rear cross-traffic alert thanks to poor top-up visibility. The rearview camera makes it easy to take advantage of the 124's small size in tight spaces.

Voice control

The Mazda-sourced system does a reasonable job interpreting commands and offers prompts to help you along. It's capable of entering navigation destinations and finding points of interest. Still, only a limited set of functions is available, and there's no Google or Siri compatibility.

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$28,515

MPG

26 city / 35 hwy

Seats 2

6-speed manual

Gas

164 hp @ 5500 rpm

See all 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite 124 Spider safety features:

Enhanced Accident Response System: Cuts off fuel to the engine, unlocks doors, flashes hazard lights, and turns on interior lights in the event of an accident.
Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts you to other vehicles that are lurking in your blind spots.
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you of oncoming perpendicular traffic when reversing out of a parking space or driveway.

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In terms of performance figures, the Mini Cooper S and the Fiat 124 are very similar. They're both lively and fun, but the front-wheel-drive Mini will lack the traditional feel of the rear-wheel-drive Fiat. Both also have plenty of retro appeal since they're reboots of beloved classics, but the Mini is quite a bit more kitschy. The Mini's rear seats may be an enticement, but they're too small for most passengers and better suited to handling trunk overflow.

Compare Fiat 124 Spider & Mini Convertible features

Fiat 124 Spider vs. Ford Mustang

These are two wildly different themes on the same convertible subject. The Fiat relies on its light weight while the Ford makes up for its heft with more power. The Mustang is far more convenient, with a more usable trunk, almost habitable rear seats and a lot more features overall. When it comes to personality, the Fiat 124 has a strong styling tie to the original, while the Mustang is an evolution over 50 years.

Compare Fiat 124 Spider & Ford Mustang features

Fiat 124 Spider vs. Mazda MX-5 Miata

This isn't an apples-to-oranges comparison but rather a mandarin oranges-to-tangerines comparison. The Fiat 124 is essentially the same as the Miata on which it is based. Sure, there are some minor differences here and there, but you're pretty much getting the same car. Styling will probably have to be the deciding factor, with a more substantial look from the Fiat compared to the Miata's sleeker and trimmed-down appearance.

Compare Fiat 124 Spider & Mazda MX-5 Miata features

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth for Sale

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More about the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider

The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider convertible delivers fun-in-the-sun driving and Italian heritage at a price that's quite reasonable.

The diminutive 124 Spider drop-top is based on Mazda's nearly 30-year-strong paean to small roadsters of yore, the MX-5 Miata. But Fiat didn't just slap a body kit on the Miata and call it a day. The 124 Spider receives a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder Fiat engine that makes more power than Mazda's 1.6-liter unit: 160 horsepower (164 hp in Abarth trim) and 184 pound-feet of torque.

In true sports-car fashion, Fiat made all 124 Spider trims rear-wheel-drive, with a slick six-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. A six-speed automatic is an option.

While the Fiat 124 Spider's compact size is certainly part of its appeal — being small and lightweight makes the Fiat feel exceptionally nimble — it is also the cause of some of its biggest compromises. There's little interior room and even less cargo space. Still, buyers may find they're willing to accept those limitations in exchange for the 124's unique driving experience.

The 124 Spider comes in three trim levels: Classica, Lusso and Abarth. The Classica is pretty bare-bones, offering niceties such as keyless entry and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob, along with air conditioning, cloth seats, and a basic stereo with Bluetooth and a 3-inch display screen. Only one package is available, and it adds a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and an upgraded infotainment system with a 7-inch screen and satellite radio capability.

Fiat offers the Lusso trim as a sort of luxury variant, with leather seats and automatic climate control, along with the 7-inch infotainment system. For 2018, the Lusso's option packages were rearranged to give buyers more choices. Packages include a nine-speaker Bose stereo, upgrades to adaptive LED headlights, and safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 124 Abarth is the sportiest version of the 124 Spider lineup, coming standard with a sport suspension and a limited-slip differential, along with unique styling cues both inside and out. It can be upgraded with Brembo brakes, simulated suede seats, and many of the same luxuries and amenities as the Lusso. The Abarth trim, in particular, is an absolute blast to drive if buyers decide they can live with the harsh ride.

Make sure to read Edmunds' full rating and review for more information, and take advantage of our shopping tools to find the best deal on a 2019 Fiat 124 Spider near you

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Overview

The 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth is offered in the following styles: , and Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M).

What do people think of the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 124 Spider Abarth.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 124 Spider Abarth featuring deep dives into trim levels including Abarth, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Read our full review of the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth here.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth?

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

The 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $29,760. The average price paid for a new 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is trending $1,844 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $1,844 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$27,916.

The average savings for the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is6.2% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 3 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.

Which 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarths are available in my area?

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Listings and Inventory

There are currently 6 new 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarths listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $32,300 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $1,844 on a new, used or CPO 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth available from a dealership near you.

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Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth and all available trim types: Abarth. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2019 FIAT 124 Spider?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth

New

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth pricing

Which 124 Spider does Edmunds recommend?

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

Trim levels & features

Trim tested

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Convertible top

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Voice control

Features & Specs

Safety

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2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth for Sale

Get more for your trade-in

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Overview

What do people think of the 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth?

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Our Review Process

What's a good price for a New 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth?

2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

Which 2019 FIAT 124 Spider Abarths are available in my area?

Can't find a new 2019 FIAT 124 Spider 124 Spider Abarth you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Compare prices on the New FIAT 124 Spider for sale in Ashburn, VA to other major cities

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Should I lease or buy a 2019 FIAT 124 Spider?

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